Wednesday, March 12, 2014

HARLEY DAVIDSON, CLARK GABLE, GENE AUTRY - MOTORCYCLES IN WWII

BUILDING A GREAT MUSEUM FOR THE SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

In 1942 America and the Western democracies were faced with war. The government of the United States worked to engage support for as many elements of society as possible. Motorcycle manufacturers and riders were encouraged to support the war effort. Motorcycle production was directed to building bikes for the US military and for our allies. The public would not have easy access to motorcycle parts or new vehicles until the war's conclusion.

Statement in "A Magazine for Motorcyclists - The Enthusiast" September 1942 - Gift to The Museum of the San Fernando Valley from Gary Fredburg 2014. (click on statement to enlarge it.)

Clark Gabel American actor and Encino resident - "A Magazine for Motorcyclists - The Enthusiast" September 1942 - Gift to The Museum of the San Fernando Valley from Gary Fredburg 2014.

"Gene Autry of movie fame shakes hands with photographer Hank Tenny at Austin, Texas. Gene recently joined the Army, while Tenny is in the Navy. Austin American photograph." The great cowboy actor Gene Autry lived in Studio City.